The Denver City Council on Monday granted initial approval to giving a $32,000 raise to District Attorney Mitch Morrissey, whose $145,000 annual salary has remained the same for four years.
The final vote will occur Jan. 5.
The proposal calls for Morrissey to get a $32,000 raise in 2009, bringing his salary up to $177,000. He would get an additional $10,000 each year for the following three years under the proposal.
Liza Willis, chief deputy district attorney, stressed to the council that the only time to increase Morrissey’s salary would be at the beginning of his term.
She also said that the state will pick up 80 percent of the salary, with the city of Denver paying the remainder.
Council members seemed inclined to support the proposal despite news that a downturn in the economy is forcing the city to slash expenses by $59 million next year, including seeking wage concessions from the unions that represent police officers, sheriff’s deputies and firefighters.
Councilwoman Marcia Johnson noted that Morrissey hadn’t received any salary boost for the past four years. She said she didn’t have concerns about the $32,000 increase but had some concerns about the future salary increases.
Councilman Charlie Brown questioned Willis on the responsibilities of the district attorney in an attempt to shore up support for the salary increase.
Willis said Morrissey would be willing to take any furloughs that might be required of city employees to help with the budget problems.
Christopher N. Osher: 303-954-1747 or cosher@denverpost.com
